Reviews: How long can I delay wisdom teeth surgery before it becomes an emergency? I am 32 years old and have all four wisdom teeth. I am pursuing new employment and opted to keep medical insurance only when I got laid off in October. My wisdom teeth were occasionally hurting, but within the past few weeks, they have become uncomfortable. I do not want to take time off from a new job, but neither do I have dental insurance to help cover the expense. How long can I wait for wisdom teeth surgery? Thanks. Derek from Galveston, TX
Derek,
Thank you for your question.
How Long Can You Delay Wisdom Teeth Surgery?
Delaying wisdom teeth surgery depends on the position and condition of your wisdom teeth. If you are feeling discomfort, your gums around the teeth may be infected. The infection will spread without treatment.
Impacted wisdom teeth
A partially impacted wisdom tooth
Discomfort from impacted wisdom teeth increases with age as tooth roots thicken and jawbone density increases. We recommend getting an evaluation before your wisdom teeth become an emergency.
Wisdom Teeth Removal Without Dental Insurance
Even if you do not have dental insurance, consider these factors:
- A wisdom teeth emergency will be inconvenient whenever it occurs.
- At least a portion of oral surgery is often billable as a medical expense, so contact your medical insurance company to ask about plan benefits.
- Dental insurance from a new employer may not be effective immediately.
- Ask an oral surgeon about financing options or apply for healthcare financing through CareCredit® or another company.
Please get your wisdom teeth evaluated promptly. An oral surgeon can monitor them even if the teeth do not require immediate removal. But you will need an x-ray to determine whether you can delay surgery.
Dr. Duane Delaune, a Metairie, Louisiana, accredited cosmetic dentist, sponsors this post.